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The OSAC Annual Briefing, held each November in Washington DC provides a unique opportunity to connect with experts from both the public and private sectors to discuss emerging threats, review lessons learned from recent global events, and to share information on risk mitigation and management.

Annual Briefing

Security Alert: Nigeria, Potential Protests and Processions During Arba’een on August 4

Security Alert: Nigeria, Potential Protests and Processions During Arba’een on August 4

*OSAC does not issue alerts. These notices are sourced from the issuing U.S. Embassy & Consulate
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August 3, 2026
 

Location – Abuja

Event: Arba’een protests/processions

The U.S. Embassy in Abuja informs U.S. citizens that potential processions and protests may occur in Abuja on August 4, as the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) is potentially commemorating Arba’een.  

Previous IMN processions and protests have resulted in confrontations with Nigerian Security Forces and have involved the use of teargas, water cannons, and live ammunition to curb activities.

Possible Locations of protests/processions in Abuja may include, but are not limited to: ICICE Al-Noor Mosque on Ibrahim Babangida Boulevar; Foud Lababidi Mosque off Sultan Abubakar Way; National Mosque on Constitution Avenue; Eagle Square and Unity Fountain on Shehu Shagari Way; National Human Rights Commission Headquarters on Aguiyi Ironsi Street; Area 10 Shopping Plaza on Tafawa Balewa Road; Berger Junction on Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway; and Bannex Plaza on Aminu Kano Crescent.

Actions to Take:

• Avoid areas where protests are taking place.
• Avoid crowds.
• Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
• Monitor local media for updates.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Keep a low profile.
• Review your personal security plans and keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency.
• Carry proper identification.
• Stay alert, including at shopping centers, movie theaters, and places of worship.
• Familiarize yourself with emergency exits and egresses when you enter buildings.
• Vary travel routes and times to reduce predictability.

If in an area of potential protest: 

• Familiarize yourself with emergency exits and egresses when you enter buildings. 
• Avoid displaying valuables or large amounts of cash. 
• Limit nighttime activity, especially in poorly lit areas. 
• Keep your car doors locked, and do not leave packages/bags in plain sight. 
• Vary travel routes and times to reduce predictability. 

The Consular Sections of Embassy Abuja and Consulate General Lagos remain open.  Please monitor our website https://ng.usembassy.gov/ for updates.

Assistance:

U.S. Embassy Abuja, Nigeria  

Plot 1075 Diplomatic Drive, Central District Area  
+234 209 461 4328 and after hours +234 209 461 4000, press zero  
AbujaACS@state.gov
https://ng.usembassy.gov/

U.S. Consulate General Lagos  
2 Walter Carrington Crescent, Victoria Island  
+234 201 460 3400 during business hours and after hours  
LagosACS@state.gov
https://ng.usembassy.gov/

State Department – Consular Affairs  
+1 888-407-4747 or +1 202-501-4444  

Nigeria Country Information 

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